What is a QR code and when do you need one?
A QR (Quick Response) code is a square barcode that a phone camera reads instantly. Scanning it can open a website, show text, start an email, dial a number or connect a device to Wi-Fi, with no typing. A QR code generator turns that information into the pattern of black and white squares.
For small businesses, QR codes bridge print and digital. A restaurant can put a menu link on every table, a shop can point packaging to a review page, and a service business can print a “call us” or “book now” code on a flyer or van. Our free tool covers all of these cases.
Which QR code type should you choose?
- Website URL: the most popular type, ideal for landing pages, menus, Google Business Profile and social pages.
- Text: shows plain text such as instructions, a coupon code or a serial number.
- Email: opens a ready-to-send email with the address, subject and message filled in.
- Phone: prompts the scanner to call your number, handy for local businesses and flyers.
- Wi-Fi: lets guests join your network without reading out a password.
Tips for a QR code that scans every time
- Keep strong contrast. Use a dark code on a light background. Inverted or low-contrast colors often fail on older phones.
- Keep the quiet zone. The blank border around the code helps scanners find it, so keep at least 4 modules.
- Print at least 2 x 2 cm (0.8 in). For posters or banners, scale up and use the SVG file.
- Shorter data scans better. A short URL makes a simpler, more reliable code than a long one.
- Test before printing. Scan with both an iPhone and an Android phone.
- Add a call to action. A line such as “Scan to see the menu” noticeably increases scans.
PNG or SVG: which download is better?
Use PNG for websites, emails, presentations and social posts. Use SVG when you print, because it is a vector format that scales to any size without blurring. If your printer asks for a high-resolution file, choose SVG or the 2048 px PNG.